Islamic State Frees Prisoners as they Flee Mosul

Reuters news agency reports that the Islamic State (IS) has freed “dozens” of prisoners in Mosul, the last major city held by the group in Iraq. According to the report, residents said those released were imprisoned for offenses such as selling cigarettes, smoking, or for having a mobile phone. The Iraqi offensive began on Oct. 17 to remove the Islamic State from Mosul. Iraqi forces have encountered sniper fire, booby traps, mortar attacks and suicide car bombers as they have advanced through the city. The United Nations has said that more than 400,000 people could be displaced from Mosul before the battle ends.